With both teams missing pivotal players, Rhinos hit back from 10-6 down at the break to secure a victory which boosted their hopes of a top-six finish.
It was Leeds' third successive Magic Weekend win and Tigers' first defeat at Newcastle's St James' Park.
Here's how the Rhinos players rated, plus marks for Tigers and the referee.
1. Richie Myler (Squad number 16)
Created chances in the second half, took his try well and solid defensively 8 Photo: Will Palmer/SWpix.com
2. David Fusitu’a (No 2)
Carried strongly in yardage, handled some testing kicks 7 Photo: Will Palmer/SWpix.com
3. Zak Hardaker (No 33)
Suffered a dead leg early on and was substituted in the second half 7 Photo: Phil Daly/Leeds Rhinos
4. Liam Sutcliffe (No 4)
Terrific break and kick for Myler's try and finished powerfully for his own touchdown 8 Photo: Will Palmer/SWpix.com
5. Ash Handley (No 5)
Scored his 100th Leeds try and his chase down of Greg Eden was remarkable 8 Photo: Will Palmer/SWpix.com
6. Corey Johnson (No 26)
Had to fill in out of position in his first Super League game since March, but did a really solid job 7 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com